Communications Course Descriptions

223-51000/51100 Selected Topics

In-depth investigation of a particular topic in the field of organizational communication, learning, and design. Students examine current theory and practice in a given area and apply these concepts to actual or simulated communication problems. A different topic is selected each term. Examples of topics include online learning and collaboration, development and fund-raising, and addictive organizations. Elective. 1-3 credits each, up to 6 credits total.

223-52000 Organizational Media Production

Introduction to the design and production of media for use in organizations, including digital images, presentation software, print and Web development, multimedia programming, and video production. Emphasis on creative use of these media in organizational settings. Students are exposed to a variety of hardware and software systems and products. Required. 3 credits.

223-53000 Organizational Communication Campaigns

Organizational communication campaigns use strategies of persuasion to effect changes in a specified audience. The course emphasizes the theoretical foundations of the art of persuasion and the strategic applications of such theories in communication campaigns. Students critically analyze a variety of internal and external communication campaigns, including attempts to improve an organization's image, to sell products and services, to affect attitudes on an issue, and to motivate employees. Additionally, students put knowledge into practice by designing an organizational communication campaign of their choosing. Elective. 3 credits.

223-53500 Learning Systems

An in-depth exploration of structures and processes created for the purpose of human learning. Emphasis on theories, models, and principles of design, learning, and instruction and their applications in training and educational contexts. Along with readings and discussions, a series of projects develops a rich understanding of analysis, design, and evaluation processes geared specifically to learning systems. Elective. 3 credits.

223-54000 Visual Design and Organizational Presentations

An examination of the design and production of visual media to be used in organizational presentations. Study of visual-design theory and research, and principles of visual design, as well as the structuring and delivery of presentations. Students will apply visual theories and principles to create still and motion images to deliver messages in stand-up and stand-alone presentations. Elective. 3 credits.

223-54100 Contemporary Issues

A survey and analysis of current problems or issues from industry, such as new media systems or trends in communication practices. Elective. 3 credits.

223-55000 Organizational Video Design and Production

Principles and experience in planning, scripting, managing, and producing nonbroadcast television programs. Analysis of instructional, promotional, and informational video formats, field production, and all aspects of pre- and postproduction used in organizations, including streaming media, and other methods of sending video via the Internet. Elective. 3 credits.

223-56000 Online Learning and Collaboration

This course, taught online, examines current and emerging designs and applications for online synchronous and asynchronous team meetings and collaboration, project management, job aids, education, training, and self-directed learning. Through readings, papers, and exercises with computer applications such as groupware, online course management software, and intranet portals, students will gain skills in using, selecting, and managing applications. They will also critique typical implements of and assumptions about online work and learning, and will learn to develop strategies for applying communication and learning theory and contemporary online tools to organizational situations. Students will engage in a series of pre-designed online experiences and "tours," in self-directed exploration of World Wide Web resources, and in online conversation and mentoring with the professor and fellow learners. No prerequisites. 3 credits.

223-57000 Corporate Communication Media

The theory and practice of technology-enhanced promotional and informational communication activities. Focus on the creation, management, and evaluation of media products. Emphasis on applying graphic design and communication theory to the development of materials such as websites, brochures, newsletters, and multimedia. Elective. 3 credits.

223-58000 Organizational Culture and Diversity

Organizational culture, in both its traditional and critical forms, provides the theoretical orientation for examining communication and diversity issues in the workplace. Emphasis is on understanding organizations as cultures: collectives whose activities are coordinated through the use of symbols and the creation of shared meaning. Diversity issues may include, for example, gender, race, age, ethnicity, or class. Active discussion and classroom participation characterized by critical thinking and analytical writing. Elective. 3 credits.

223-58500 Communication Technology and Organizations

An examination and critique of the impact of new technologies on communication in organizations. A review of major organizational theories is followed by an analysis of their consequences for the implementation of communication technologies. Particular attention is on user involvement, work design, decision-making processes, interpersonal interaction, organizational structure, and the development of organizational policy regarding communication technology. Elective. 3 credits.

223-59000/59100 Internship

Jointly supervised work experience with a cooperating institution or corporation in the field of communication, intended to provide the intern with opportunity for professional growth. No more than 6 credits of internship and/or tutorial may be counted toward the 36 required credits. Prerequisites: Completion of 12 graduate credits with a GPA of 3.00 or better and prior permission of the graduate chair. Graded pass/fail only. Elective. 1-6 credits each, up to 6 credits total.

223-64000 Designing Systems and Messages

An overview of theory and practice in analyzing organizational communication needs and applying communication and learning theories to designing solutions for those needs. Readings and projects focus on design and writing for both large-scale communication systems and small-scale projects and messages for information exchange, persuasion, and instruction using a variety of strategies and media. Required. 3 credits.

A comprehensive course to develop competence in the administration of communication programs and facilities. Specific attention is given to personnel and fiscal management, program and policy development, internal-external communication policy and practice, and program evaluation. Required. 3 credits.

223-64300 Research Methods in Communication

An examination of various communication research and evaluation methods and their theoretical underpinnings. Includes study of quantitative and qualitative paradigms and methods such as experimentation, statistical analysis, interview and survey techniques, participant observation, and ethnography. Emphasis on critical examination of research reports and on basic techniques of applied research. Required. 3 credits.

Individually designed independent program of study or project in a specific area of communication research and/or practice. Prerequisites: Successful completion of at least 9 graduate credits and prior approval of a written proposal by the tutorial mentor and the graduate chair. No more than 6 credits of internship and/or tutorial may be counted toward the 36 required credits. Elective. 1-6 credits each, up to 6 credits total.

223-65700 E-Learning Systems

The theory and practice of technology-enhanced learning environments. Focus on the creation, management, and evaluation of e-learning systems. Emphasis on applying instructional design and learning theory to the development of e-learning products. Elective. 3 credits.

223-68000 Seminar: Theory in Practice

Capstone course in which students apply concepts and skills to solve actual communication problems for clients. Includes study of project management and consulting skills. Prerequisites: All other required courses must be completed or in progress. Required. 3 credits.

223-69000/69100 Independent Research -- Thesis

Theoretical or applied research in organizational communications or media, as advised. Permission of adviser and department faculty required before enrolling. Elective. 3 credits per course.